Based on a novel by author-composer Naoto Kine, this 1994 feature focuses on Sixth-grader Hitomi Nozawa, a latchkey kid who wards off loneliness with Junkers, the schnauzer who talks to her (or does he?). Hitomi's execut... more &raquoive mother works long hours, her father travels the world shooting commercials. Aside from Junkers, Hitomi's only companions are Keisuke, the tutor she has a crush on, and Fumie, the flighty maid. Hitomi's parents are contemplating a divorce, but she and Junkers intervene, bringing the story to a happy ending. Junkers Come Here is a pleasant fantasy that captures the loneliness of a girl whose parents don't realize they're neglecting her. Hiroichi Fuse's talky screenplay wears its heart on its sleeve, but the film is a pleasant fantasy with a conclusion many children will wish they could share. (Rated: 7 and older: minor toilet humor, tobacco and alcohol use) --Charles Solomon&laquo less

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Movie Reviews

Cute! Cute! Cute!

Terry Dawson | 11/04/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a very cute movie. The dog is adorable. It might strike some as different because there really isn't any "action" that you may see in alot of animated movies. It is just a touching movie. It does not have the wild imaginings that you normally see in a Miyazaki. However, I had a group of kids from 5 to 14 watching the movie, and they all loved it. We might be a little biased since we have a schnauzer that looks alot like Junkers. It is just a feel-good type of movie. I did not see any objectional moments in the movie. I don't want to give too much of the movie away, so I will just leave you with the comments from Amazon.com. The only reason that I could not give it five stars (which I reserved for Spirited Away) is that I could not stand the mother. The movie is a little pricey, but I could not find it in the local video store. I took a chance and bought it. I am glad that I bought it, and will leave it in my collection. It got a thumbs up from my kids, and that's enough for me."

Nicely done magic realism

Terry Dawson | Appleton, WI USA | 11/29/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This fine story of a lonely girl illustrates the power pets have in giving us an outlet for feelings and helping come to terms with life problems. Hiromi lives with her tutor and house-keeper, becuase her parents have no time for her or each other. On one level this works as a commentary on Japanese, and other societies', obsession with material and career success rather than human relationships.

The script seems to have real respect for all the characters -- the viewer comes to care about even the supporting cast. The final message has a lot do with being honest, with yourself and those you care about, in facing up to your feelings. If the ending is a bit too pat, it's forgiveable in a children's fantasy, but it's unfortunate that every child cannot stop their parents divorce merely by asking. But this is a quibble in a sinecrely enchanting movie.

Junkers the schnauzer may or may not talk and magically grant wishes -- whether he really does so, or it happens only in the heroine's imagination, is really irrelevant. But Junkers the movie surely has some magic for the viewer."